What have I learned in my first year as a medical writer?

Where do I begin?

Reflecting on my first year as a medical writer, I can say it has been a challenging and rewarding experience. I have discovered that learning about the medical communication industry versus working in the industry is quite different. There is so much more to learn and to get to grips with once you’ve got your foot in the door. However, I have enjoyed finding out what it takes to become a medical writer and learning a lot more about myself.

One year in I thought I’d share some key insights from the past 12 months!

Understanding what project management means in med comms

Diving into the industry and starting my journey as a medical writer made me quickly realise the vast number of projects and deadlines that are involved. Over the past year, I have seen just how much work is fed into each project, from the planning and preparation to the communication plans and review process involved; each playing an integral part towards a successful outcome. Understanding the importance of these steps has been key to building the skillset that is required of a medical writer.

Evolving my mindset

Evolving my mindset and implementing a more critical way of thinking has been a key learning from my first year. I now approach my tasks with a critical mindset and am continuously asking myself questions to understand what is expected from me and how I can produce the best quality of work, questions I now ask myself are…who is my target audience? What are the learning objectives? What important information can be extracted and how can I communicate this in a clear and concise way?

Developing a thick skin

Learning to become a good and competent medical writer does require a thick skin. Part and parcel of growing and developing within the industry entails critical feedback of your work. I have learnt to see this feedback as a positive and ultimately used it to improve my writing and enhance my professional skills. It is vital in the industry to listen to constructive feedback, understand it and interpret it, whilst still learning not to take it personally or impact your self-belief and confidence. Sometimes clients just need to see something to know what it is they do or don’t want!

Being consultative 24/7

I always remind myself that even as a new medical writer my opinion within the agency is valuable. Whether I’m working in a small or large team, internally or with clients, my thoughts and views on projects matter! Innovation and forward thinking is championed to strive for excellence in the quality of content provided to clients and to continue to shape the business. I have learnt not to be afraid and to speak up and share my ideas.

Working on my personal development

Last but by no means least, I have learnt to improve how I manage my tasks and my time. Setting myself goals, implementing effective time management and being proactive in my learning journey have all been important milestones towards becoming a successful medical writer.  Not being afraid to ask questions, and continuously learning to educate myself on how to improve my way of thinking and improve my professional development has been key.

Overall, my first year has been an enjoyable and insightful one and I am looking forward to what the second year has to offer!